STYLES

Wedding Giveaway: Kristie and Darius

KRISTIE POPE AND DARIUS JACKSON

Kristie, 24, and Darius, 24, will marry Sept. 20, 2008, in Baltimore.

» WANT TO VOTE for this couple? Click here.

How did you meet?
Introduced by a friend, they chatted online, then by phone. Five days later, when they were first going to meet in person — at Kristie's birthday party — Darius called from the hospital, and Kristie realized how serious his diagnosis of multiple sclerosis was. "I curled myself up into a corner and cried. I couldn't understand how or why I felt so much compassion and sorrow for a man I had yet to meet face-to-face."

How did he propose?
Kristie had taken a week off, and they'd planned a different outing for each day. And while they'd expected to marry eventually, Darius' proposal that week came as a surprise. He had Kristie's mom call her with a list of available wedding dates at their church. Darius began to argue with Kristie over the date. He was faking, but she didn't know it — at least, not until he got down on one knee.

Describe a time when things were tough, but you stayed together and forged through.
"Darius continued to experience several exacerbations of MS and relied heavily on his family and me to help him through his illness. But we continue to live our lives as if all is normal. I'm often questioned about my decision to marry a man with a life-threatening illness, and I constantly remind friends and family that Darius is my soulmate and I was created in God's eyes for him."

If you had to make a TV show, movie or book into the theme of your wedding, which would you choose and why?
"'Monday Night Football' ... Ravens versus Colts! Darius becomes a male cheerleader for the Colts and Kristie thinks Ray Lewis alone can win all the games."

You get to the church on your wedding day and the roof has fallen in. What do you do?
"As much as I wanted to marry in the house of God, I'm sure our marriage would be equally blessed outside," says Kristie.

Would you rather marry in a lime-green prom ensemble from the 1970s, or include all your exes in the wedding party?
"Darius was already planning on the 1970s theme, but I had to divert his thoughts from that and the McDonald's catered reception and the groomsmen in basketball shorts."

ALSO IN STYLES
COMMENTS (112)

  • Great Story! Hope you guys win.

    By Time 4 the Reception , Posted February 15, 2008 7:57 AM

  • Aww, this was so cute! I'm going out on the campaign trail to get you votes :-) Good Luck!!!

    By Aunt Loisy , Posted February 15, 2008 8:18 AM

  • Kristie and Darius-
    Kristie, your Dad and I are so very proud of you and love both you and Darius. As we prepare for your special day we are excited to have a new addition to our family. You Kristie are our 'baby girl' our bubbly delightful princess! Our congratulation to both of you -
    Mom

    By Robena Pope , Posted February 15, 2008 8:44 AM

  • What a beautiful couple! I'v personally seen the look in their eyes, it's unmistakeable to say the least. Pure love of God and self, pure self giving! Good Luck you two. God has blessed you already with many more to go!
    Love you guys
    Karen :)

    By Karen , Posted February 15, 2008 8:57 AM

  • You're a wonderful couple. Got my vote.

    By Thomasina , Posted February 15, 2008 9:13 AM

  • It's refreshing to see people marry for true love despite of Darius's illness. May you both be blessed in your union.

    By T Gregory , Posted February 15, 2008 9:33 AM

  • Congratulations and Best Wishes

    By Michele Josey , Posted February 15, 2008 9:34 AM

  • Kristie & Darius,

    I am so happy and proud of you both. You so deserve this opportunity. Kristie is full of Love and a Giving Spirit, I knew Darius was "THE ONE" when Kristie told me about him, and hearing the same from her siblings I know he is. Since meeting Darius, he "OZZIES" with Love for her, and has her best interest at heart.He is already a welcomed member of our family.Stay and Pray together and remember...The Best Is Yet To Come!

    By Linda A Taylor , Posted February 15, 2008 9:36 AM

  • Kristie, what a lovely beginning. May you both be blessed.

    By Irene Martin , Posted February 15, 2008 9:41 AM

  • I am sooooooooooooooo happy for you guys! Good luck - you are definitely my favorite couple!

    By *Keva , Posted February 15, 2008 9:48 AM

  • I am sooooo happy for the both of you!! You both look wonderful together. The two of you are in my prayers.

    By Nakeesha Trammell , Posted February 15, 2008 9:55 AM

  • Darius and Kristie,

    I have been friends with Darius for over 10 years and although I just met Kristie last year, I know you guys are perfect for each other and have never seen Darius like this before. It's because he has met his better half! Good luck and I will solicit you guys more votes!!!! And the write up on you guys is wonderful!!! God bless this!

    By Nathaniel Ha'lim Benjamin , Posted February 15, 2008 10:05 AM

  • What a beautiful couple!! I hope you win this contest, and have a happy and healthy life together!

    By Rachel Rose , Posted February 15, 2008 10:21 AM

  • I have met Darius and Kristie and they are truly nice people. I am very happy to be able to vote for them and hope they win. Theirs is a wonderful story!

    By L. Dawkins , Posted February 15, 2008 10:42 AM

  • Placing God first makes you the winner anyway, but of course I hope you win the contest. I am your sister's friend, and I love her, so I love you guys too! God Bless.

    By Debra Curry , Posted February 15, 2008 10:46 AM

  • Kristie and Darius Congratulations! What a wonderful gift you have in each other...cherish it always. My best hopes and wishes for your future!

    By Alicia , Posted February 15, 2008 11:01 AM

  • God bless you both, what a team. My daughter spent New Years with Kristie and her family and just fell in love with them.

    By janet , Posted February 15, 2008 11:06 AM

  • You will always have my vote!

    By Gretchen M. , Posted February 15, 2008 11:06 AM

  • I am so happy for you two. I know GOD has many blessing on the horizon for you both.

    By Jamie Copelin , Posted February 15, 2008 11:22 AM

  • Hope this works.Good Luck and God Bless

    By Gus , Posted February 15, 2008 11:24 AM

  • Darius,
    You remain one of our favorite students! I am so proud of you and wish you and Kristie every good thing! Be blessed!

    By S. Grant , Posted February 15, 2008 11:25 AM

  • Congratulations!

    By Corrina , Posted February 15, 2008 11:31 AM

  • Darius & Kristie
    Always remember, a loving heart is God's cure. Congratulations and May God continue to shower your life with his blessings.

    By Auntie "A" , Posted February 15, 2008 11:38 AM

  • I knew Darius from GPHS, and he was definitely a great friend. He was your all around class clown, yet I never knew that behind his crazy character was so much pain. I even remember you being the Yellowjackets Mascot. None the less, Congratulations to Kristie and Darius for choosing to live your lives in God's eyes, and taking this great journey.

    By Jasmine Brown , Posted February 15, 2008 11:38 AM

  • remember the first poetic words every utterer to a woman, flesh of my flesh bones of my bones this one will be called women unquote,so none you have it this is the last women you will ever need and want love on.love on for ever.

    By bernard , Posted February 15, 2008 12:19 PM

  • Congratulations Darius and Kristie. I am a cousin of Darius and I look forward to meeting Kristie on their special day!

    By Olivia Smith , Posted February 15, 2008 12:26 PM

  • Awww your all grown up Darius!! your little big cousin
    Hugs and Kisses to you both Congrats

    By shanese , Posted February 15, 2008 12:37 PM

  • Very touching story. May God continue to bless you both and I truly hope you win.

    By Brenda Robertson , Posted February 15, 2008 12:44 PM

  • Darius I have known your sister for over 20 years and you for the same amount of time. As cliche as it may sound you have defintiely grown into a fine young man it's no wonder God has blessed you with such a wonderful woman. Take care of each other and may God bless you both.

    By Rochelle Shaffer , Posted February 15, 2008 1:49 PM

  • Congratulations Kristie and I wish you and Darius all of luck.

    By Valencia , Posted February 15, 2008 4:29 PM

  • You guys are the best...a true inspiration!

    By Solomon , Posted February 15, 2008 4:49 PM

  • Congratulations!

    By Thelma K. Mackel , Posted February 15, 2008 5:21 PM

  • Congrats Kristie. I hope you two are truly blessed and I hope you win. Was this around when I got married? I could always use some extra stuff.

    By Ashley Shivers , Posted February 15, 2008 6:29 PM

  • Kristie, I am so excited to be working with you to make your day everything you've dreamed of. Best wishes!

    By Michelle Davis , Posted February 15, 2008 7:21 PM

  • Congratulations on becoming engaged! You have my vote, hands down!!!

    By Chimere Pelzer , Posted February 15, 2008 9:17 PM

  • Kristie and Darius, what a lovely story. You have my vote,and God Bless. Flora

    By Flora Jackson , Posted February 15, 2008 9:21 PM

  • Kristie and Darius were made for each other. I knew it the very first time I saw her. I told a few people but not him. I said Darius is going to marry her. I saw a completeness in him. "God always gives His very best to those who leave the choice to Him" James Hudson Taylor. Kristie and Darius, always remember to ask God's guidance on all matters of importance. I thank God for the two of you and the life he has planned for you. God is going to show himself off in the two of you. Darius, I am so proud to have you as my son. You have grown into a fine young man. Hope you win the contest. I love the both of you, Mommie

    By Sharon Thomas Jackson , Posted February 16, 2008 1:26 AM

  • Dear Darius,

    Your most favorite Aunt, June Joaquin & Anpu wish you everlasting health, wealth, & prosperity in this most perfect union. We are proud that you are going old-school by getting married & for that we also wish the Most High God spread his wings of protection over you & yours forever & a day. Salaam.

    By Anpu Ankhamen & June Joaquin , Posted February 16, 2008 3:21 AM

  • I don't know you guys, but may GOD bless and keep you under his mighty WINGS. Always let HIM be the Wind Beneath Your Wings.

    GOD BLESS and GOOD LUCK

    By Mary Billings , Posted February 16, 2008 10:41 AM

  • I'm so glad you asked me to invite some people you didn't know to your birthday party because now one of my best friends and one of my favorite people are getting married!...Congrats..love you both!

    By Jemika , Posted February 16, 2008 3:44 PM

  • Darius and Kristie best wishes on your upcoming nuptials.

    Although I have yet to meet Kristie, I look forward to meeting her at the wedding. I know you all will win this contest. God already has it planned out for you. Darius I am glad that you have found your soulmate and marriage is a beautiful thing. Good luck guys and may God continue to bless your steps.

    By Ann and Autumn , Posted February 17, 2008 7:46 AM

  • Good Luck guys May God Bless you.

    By auntie June , Posted February 17, 2008 7:47 AM

  • Wow....D/Superman is getting married....God Bless you two I am so happy that the two of u have found each other...Remember anything put togather by Gos cannot be put asnder by man...Pray Togather and watch the miracles that God will perform for the two of you..Including healing the symptoms of that MS..See u in the Winners circle.

    By Damo. , Posted February 17, 2008 1:08 PM

  • I have been a neighbor to his aunt (June Jacobs-Joaquin) for a long time. I happy to see this couple moving forward in there life. I hope to see many wondeful and prosperous moments with them. Congratulation on you'll engagement.

    By Kwame Jackson , Posted February 17, 2008 2:59 PM

  • Nice to read about spiritual young folks. I liked your story and think you should win the contest.

    God Bless

    By Yvette , Posted February 17, 2008 4:06 PM

  • Congratulations you have our vote.

    By The Smith Family , Posted February 17, 2008 5:24 PM

  • Congratulations you have our vote.

    By The Smith Family , Posted February 17, 2008 5:30 PM

  • Darius,

    Your mother is so proud of the young man you have grown to be. She and I have been friends since 1977. I can actually say I knew you before you were born. :-)

    Your and Kristie's story makes me think of one of my favorite Bible stories:

    1 Corinthians 13
    Love
    1If I speak in the tongues[a] of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames,[b] but have not love, I gain nothing.
    4Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

    8Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. 9For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. 11When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. 12Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

    13And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

    May you and Kristie enjoy a life filled with Love.

    God bless you,

    Tina Stanback Griffin & Family

    By Tina Stanback Griffin , Posted February 17, 2008 8:38 PM

  • Hoping you do well in the contest!!!

    I wish you God's best!!!

    By Cherice , Posted February 17, 2008 9:22 PM

  • I wish you the best of luck... I love you guys and I miss you a lot. Just in case you don't remember me. It's Alyssa Goins (your cousin). I hope I'm invited.

    By Alyssa , Posted February 17, 2008 10:42 PM

  • May God bless you both. I am a cousin of Darius and very excited to hear about the engagement. Darius and Kristie, you both have my blessings. Just remember "with GOD all things are possible".

    By Sabrina Smith , Posted February 18, 2008 11:38 AM

  • Kristie & Darius
    You both make a beautiful couple!

    Congratulations and God bless you both.

    By Lillian Ellis , Posted February 18, 2008 1:15 PM

  • Congratulations on your upcoming wedding! May the Lord bless your marriage with love, happiness, prosperity, and health!

    By Harold & Lois , Posted February 18, 2008 5:32 PM

  • Hey guys, you have my vote! Good luck to you and Darius, the colors DO matter and have to match PERFECTLY! lol

    P.S. And Kristie I hope you know what you are getting yourself into, as you can see some of Darius' friends (I'm not claiming them this time around)lock themselves into rooms from the inside and still can't get out! lol Good luck girl!

    By Jhonae , Posted February 18, 2008 8:30 PM

  • congrats 2 u both. darius i am a friend of your dad. what a wonderful story. keep GOD first in your lives stay faithful and reep the benefits of OUR GOD we knoe HE is a healer!!!!!!!!!!!!!! be blessed and good luck

    By sheila , Posted February 18, 2008 9:00 PM

  • You and Darius look like a couple that will make it!

    By Andy , Posted February 18, 2008 9:55 PM

  • Darius, As long as I've known you (since GPHS) you have been one of the nicest, funniest and down to earth people I've ever met. As I continue to wish you both the best of luck in your future together, and a sincere Congrats, I truly wish the both of you, would win the contest... you already know you have my vote!

    Good Luck!

    By LaTia L. , Posted February 19, 2008 8:32 AM

  • Mr Jackson worked for me at Maryland. He has a wonderful personality and was always bright and cheerful despite any difficulties. I wish him and his wonderful fiancée a beautiful life together. Best wishes for the future!!

    By Autumn Kelley , Posted February 19, 2008 8:47 AM

  • It is the difficult things in life which make you realize how important having a soulmate is,, Things are just not that hard when you have each other.. Goodluck hope you win.

    By Allison Mudd Moore , Posted February 19, 2008 10:33 AM

  • Kristie and Darius,
    I wish and pray the best for you two. Kristie your mom have talked sooo much about her daughters. And I have met you once. May God Bless Your Union as Husband and Wife. Remember always the story of the virtues woman in the book of Proverbs.

    By Ms. Shawna Berry , Posted February 19, 2008 11:23 AM

  • Congratulations and may God continue to be a blessing to you.

    By kvwright , Posted February 19, 2008 11:36 AM

  • Darius, Congratulations to you and your future bride. I wish you both the best and many happy times. ~JoeTori~

    By JoeTori , Posted February 19, 2008 12:57 PM

  • Kristie and Darius, you all have my vote. I don't even know you personally. But a high school class mate sent an email asking us to support the two of you. So I am following instructions. I have read your story and I am such a romanticize, that's the other reason I am voting for the two of you. God Bless!!

    By Ali A. , Posted February 19, 2008 3:34 PM

  • Very Nice!!

    By Bernadette Canada , Posted February 19, 2008 4:15 PM

  • Best of luck to you.

    By Corey , Posted February 19, 2008 4:43 PM

  • Congratulations on your engagement and God Bless!

    By Khaliss , Posted February 19, 2008 4:53 PM

  • Forgot to say Beautiful couple congrats again!!!:)

    By Khaliss , Posted February 19, 2008 4:55 PM

  • Congratulations and God Bless!

    By Black , Posted February 19, 2008 4:57 PM

  • Sharon's "little guy" and his beautiful fiance have all our votes....Good luck and may your union be forever blessed!!

    By Dee Woodard & The Girls , Posted February 19, 2008 5:47 PM

  • Darius,
    Congratulations on your engagement. God Bless!
    Crystal

    By Crystal Heard , Posted February 19, 2008 6:51 PM

  • Anyone who loves watching Ray Lewis be the entire defensive line for the Ravens, is definitely ok in my book!

    Good Luck!

    By Debbie Davis , Posted February 19, 2008 9:39 PM

  • Darius & Kristie

    What a blessing it has been to watch my little brother grow from a baby to man of God exemplifying values, compassion, conviction, and humility. Darius, we've shared many, many laughs, talks, JOKES, one-liners from our favorite movies (lol), and stories over these 20+ years that I'll always cherish. But I'm very excited about the new season that God has in store for you both.

    Kristie, on behalf of the Jackson & Thomas family, I once again welcome you to the family. I'm very happy to be gaining you as a sister-in-law!

    You both have awesome testimonies and are favored of God. No matter the outcome of this contest, always remember that God will cause you both to triumph in ALL things. Goodness & mercy will continue to follow you all the days of your lives.

    Love Always,
    Sherita

    All things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose.(Romans 8:28)


    By Sherita Jackson , Posted February 20, 2008 12:12 AM

  • Kristie you are as beautiful as when you were a little girl. Strangers would walk up to you and say how precious you were. Even then, it wasn't just on the outside. There has always been an inner beauty. Your parents must be very proud of the wonderful job they did rearing you and your siblings.
    You will be a loving and compassionate wife. Darius, you are blessed to have found her. She is special! But, I am sure you know that. God Bless you both.

    By Cookie , Posted February 20, 2008 12:13 AM

  • I don't know you two. I was reading the Express this morning. You all have my vote. Congratulations and God Bless!

    By Tovia Peterson , Posted February 20, 2008 7:47 AM

  • Kristie, here's wishing you and Darius all the best and a future of happiness and good health!!

    By Patrice , Posted February 20, 2008 8:37 AM

  • I know that they really love each other. Kristie has a strong constitution -- she loves this man even though he is ill -- that's love -- I hope that they win.

    By Harryette Anderson , Posted February 20, 2008 8:51 AM

  • Congratulations Kristie and Darius, you certainly have my vote! Darius, your grandmother, Jane Jackson, has contacted all of the members of the P-Nines Pinocle Club about this contest. You are already winners!!

    By Evie L. Saunders-Davis , Posted February 20, 2008 9:11 AM

  • Darius and Kristie – Wishing you luck on the contest! The two of you are the nicest young couple which have it all together, in all the ways that really matter. Keep supporting one and other and radiating all that love for each other. Come September, we all will be anxious (and teary eyed) to witness this beautiful love story coming to fruition with your union of love through God. Love and blessings, Aunt Lainy

    By Elaine , Posted February 20, 2008 9:34 AM

  • What a beautiful story. I hope the best for the both of you and remember to always keep God first...
    Gloria

    By Gloria , Posted February 20, 2008 12:25 PM

  • Good Luck! Hope you win...

    By Sheryl Walker , Posted February 20, 2008 12:44 PM

  • May God bless your union and much success to you both.

    By Pralines , Posted February 20, 2008 1:20 PM

  • I didn't even read the other biographies...this was the first one I came to. You get my vote because I suffer from MS as well and every now and then I have the feeling that I will never meet anyone who will accept my disease and love me unconditionally. This story gave me hope. God Bless you both and your marriage forever!

    By Anissa Hunter , Posted February 20, 2008 2:23 PM

  • God bless you and keep you and make His face shine upon you......

    Margaret

    By Margaret Oliver , Posted February 20, 2008 3:54 PM

  • It put a smile in my heart to read your responses. As they say you never should "congratulate" a bride but to keep tradition I will send my best wishes to the the engaged couple..who will eventually become a lovely married couple. Just remember a wedding is an event...marriage is a commitment but love is unconditional

    By mark roy , Posted February 20, 2008 4:19 PM

  • My mother Margaret Oliver wanted to wish you the best. Good luck to you both.

    By Sinclair Harris , Posted February 20, 2008 8:51 PM

  • Pr 18:22
    Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the Lord.

    Eph 21:25
    Submitting yourselfs one to another in the fear of God. Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of church: and he is the saviour of the body.

    By Valerie McCambry , Posted February 20, 2008 9:03 PM

  • Congratulations Kristie & Darius! Darius, your grandmother Jane Jackson and my mother play in the same pinocle club and worked together many years in the Postal Service. I also worked briefly in the same station with your father as a letter carrier. I pray that you and your bride have happiness and longevity. Blessing to you both.

    By Regina Smith , Posted February 21, 2008 9:37 AM

  • Darius and I went to the same high school, and I remember him as being a wonderful, funny, kind-hearted respectful person. Good luck in the contest and may God continue to bless you as a person as well as in your marriage. You've definitely got my vote!

    By Erica Watson , Posted February 21, 2008 9:54 AM

  • What an awesome and touching testament. You have my vote and best wishes. It is truly endearing to see a young couple with so much love between them. I am a friend of Jane & Bobby from way back, so I too remember you as a tot, Darius. Continue to keep God first in your lives and good things like meeting and liking one another will continue to happen. It's not often we find our soul mates-be blessed.

    By Beverly Adams , Posted February 21, 2008 10:47 AM

  • I wish you both nothing but the very best.This is what i call true love,good luck to the both of you,

    By Tammie , Posted February 21, 2008 11:05 AM

  • This is such a beautiful story! I really hope that you get this. The most beautiful couple with a most beautiful connection. This is the true meaning of love.

    Gabby

    By Gabrielle Smith , Posted February 21, 2008 11:07 AM

  • If you look at the love in each of their eyes, and the smile on their faces all you can do is to vote for and hope that this wonderful couple wins this contest. Congratulations and Best Wishes to you both.

    Good Luck!!

    By Larry Sledd , Posted February 21, 2008 11:11 AM

  • Hello Kristy I went to school with Darius. I wish you both the best. My sister got married about 3 years ago and her husband has a bad case of sickle cell. They are so happy together because they know God is still in control. God knows exactly who is made for who and who can stand the test of life together. I pray that God will heal your body Darius! If that is not in his will, I pray that God will give you strength Kristy to be a strong wife, like I have seen my sister be to her husband. God Bless your union!

    By Monica Key , Posted February 21, 2008 11:59 AM

  • Before I read your article I just looked at the pictures and chose the two of you. Something just said pick them and that is how my vote came along. May god bless the both of you and I pray that you are the winners. God Bless!!!

    By Sunnyside , Posted February 21, 2008 2:49 PM

  • Wishing both you the best of all this life has to offer.

    Be happy for this moment. This moment is your life.

    By M.J. , Posted February 21, 2008 2:56 PM

  • Darius, congratulations to you and Kristie. I love you both. The first time I met Kristie, I knew she was special. It was at Darius' Baptism. I was so proud to see him accept Christ in his life. That day my son became a real man.

    Kristie, welcome to our family. I couldn't have asked for a better daughter-in-law.

    Darius and Kristie, your story has touched many lives. May God bless you both forever and a day.

    Love,
    Daddy

    By Wendell Jackson , Posted February 21, 2008 3:04 PM

  • Darius,
    I haven't met you in person, but I feel I know you through you grandmother Jane Jackson. Congratulations to you and Kristie and may God bless your marriage. You are a beautiful couple! God keep you.

    By Doretha Smith , Posted February 21, 2008 6:09 PM

  • Darius and Kristie,
    Congratulations on your engagement. God bless you both. Your story is very touching and inspirational. We pray you win!
    Love,
    Michael and Cynthia Trammell

    By Michael and Cynthia Trammell , Posted February 21, 2008 7:14 PM

  • Darius,I never met you, but I know and love the person you came from,your father.Whos so proud of you. I wish you and Kristie much happiness as you start your new life. And always keep faith and trust in GOD.

    By Louise Ford , Posted February 22, 2008 5:24 AM

  • Here's hoping you guys win and Wishing you ALL the best. Remember your vows through good times and bad and everything else will come second nature.

    Wishing you both the Best.

    By Marie P , Posted February 22, 2008 9:11 AM

  • What an amazing story! The two of you have proven what true and real love is all about! I sincerely pray you win this. You are the most deserving couple. God bless!!

    By joy , Posted February 22, 2008 9:56 AM

  • Kristie,

    I happened to be reading the express this morning 2/22 and i came across the ad. I love you for being that "Strong" woman and standing behind a man whom she barely knew but to be there for him when he needed her most. That there shows how dedicated you are to your husband to be. May God continue to give you and Darius the strength to carry on. One more vote for Kristie and Darius. Congratulatioins to you both!

    By Nicole , Posted February 22, 2008 10:12 AM

  • Beautiful! Me and my fiance are also going to be married on September 20 of this year!! :) We wish you all the best and a life of love and joy together.

    By hawley , Posted February 22, 2008 10:44 AM

  • I am happy for the both of you.I may not know you,but i give you all the praise for your union.It's an inspiration to hear a couple that no matter what hills they may have to climb or obstacles they strive to put LOVE first.
    I too have found a guy that I never thought woudl come into my life, and he is a god sent to me.
    Continue to lift each other up and put God first,because he will bring even more blessings into your life.
    ENJOY YOUR HAPPINESS TOGETHER.

    By Shireen , Posted February 22, 2008 11:04 AM

  • What cuties! Good luck.

    By Alicia S. , Posted February 22, 2008 12:08 PM

  • Darius, May God bless this beautiful union and keep your family safe. Congrats, you two, on your engagement... You have my vote and especially my prayers!

    By Keyana Ellis , Posted February 22, 2008 1:41 PM

  • My fellow UMES Hawk! Whats up Darius just wanted to congratulate you and Kristie on this wounderful step you guys are taking together! I pray the Lord guys your path and remember its a marathon and not a race! God bless the two of you! O yea and Heeyyy itss my birthdayyyy!

    By Kirk Samuel , Posted February 22, 2008 2:16 PM

  • I heart Kristie and Darius!

    By Margo Cary , Posted February 22, 2008 2:53 PM

  • Darius, we are so proud of you and Kristie. You have grown up to be a fine young man. We wish the two of you the best in your marriage and in ALL you undertake. Good luck and may God keep you in His care.

    Love,
    Grandma & G-Diddy

    By Jane Jackson , Posted February 22, 2008 3:27 PM

  • Darius and Kristie,

    May God bless this union and keep you both in his care.

    Much Love,
    Cousins: Mint, Lisa, Jay, and Kairi

    By Mint Silver (Kairi's Grandma) , Posted February 22, 2008 7:52 PM

  • Hey Darius and Kristie!

    I met Darius during a college summer program for exceptional high school graduates and I knew then how far he would excel. Darius has such a warm, honest, studios, and determined personality and I am so happy that he found a Queen to identify with him and Christ to complete him.

    I never knew about Darius’s condition, but, I am so confident that God has and will continue to heal him. The Darius I know is a champ, independent, and one who beats odds!

    Kristie seems like such a wonderful woman and I am so glad that Darius has her. It takes a lot to be a strong black woman…and Christ and vision in her life perfects her! She has a Godly glow about her and her spirit radiates royalty!

    I want to leave you two with prayers of love, joy, prosperity, continuous friendship and a nice wedding poem.

    I Promise-Dorothy R. Colgan

    I promise to give you the best of myself
    and to ask of you no more than you can give.

    I promise to respect you as your own person
    and to realize that your interests, desires and needs
    are no less important than my own.

    I promise to share with you my time and my attention
    and to bring joy, strength and imagination to our relationship.

    I promise to keep myself open to you,
    to let you see through the window of my world into my innermost fears and feelings, secrets and dreams.

    I promise to grow along with you,
    to be willing to face changes in order to keep our relationship alive and exciting.

    I promise to love you in good times and bad,
    with all I have to give and all I feel inside in the only way I know how. Completely and forever

    Be blessed Brother and Sister in Christ,
    Gina D. Yarbough

    By Gina D. Yarbough , Posted February 22, 2008 11:27 PM

  • I am a reader of express newspaper. I can not tell you how i am glad . i am so happy . enjoy your wedding as well your life. I never felt like this . In sept i imagin how your wedding is going to be. Love and peace. God bless you

    By wini , Posted February 24, 2008 10:20 AM
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